FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I sign up for lessons or become a member?

You can call the boathouse at (413) 442-7769 and leave a message or you can send an email to berkshirerowingandsculling@gmail.com. We’ll get back to you to schedule a session with a coach and/or help you become a member.

How can I rent a boat?

Once you have been cleared by a coach and have registered for a membership, you can sign up to take a boat on RegattaCentral. If you need help with this, don’t hesitate to email berkshirerowingandsculling@gmail.com. Our hours of operation are 6 to 10 AM, 7 days a week so you can take a boat out during those times. Please sign up before 5PM on the day before your row out of courtesy to our staff and other members. If you sign up for a boat you are expected to be at the boathouse unless you have properly cancelled your reservation.

How can I cancel a reservation?

If you need to cancel your reservation, please do so as soon as possible. This will allow us to get more people on the water efficiently and ensure that we are properly staffed. If you are cancelling your reservation before 7pm the evening before your row, all you need to do is remove your name from RegattaCentral. If you are cancelling later than 7pm the evening before your row, please call the boathouse at (413) 442-7769 and leave a message. Additionally, email us at berkshirerowingandsculling@gmail.com.

What kind of weather prevents rowing?

Heavy fog, wind, and thunderstorms prevent rowing. We do not row in fog unless our visibility is at least 100 yards. Even in minimal fog, you must row slowly, carefully, and close to shore to prevent accidents. We do not row if there is any indication of thunder or lightning. However, we do row in the rain! As for wind, nobody can row if there are whitecaps (usually caused by 10 mph winds). On choppy days, staff may limit rowing to team boats only.

What happens if the weather is not ideal for rowing?

We strongly encourage all members sign up for a program called Remind. If the staff decides rowing conditions are not ideal, Remind will send you a text or email indicating that rowing will be delayed or cancelled. If you check your messages in the morning before you leave, hopefully you can save a trip and sleep in if the boathouse is closed.